Introduction to Your Union

I’m Automatically Part of the Union, Right?

Actually, no! Membership in CAPS is opt-in, meaning that you must actively fill out a member application either in-person or online. Without filling out a membership application, you are considered a non-member in the Bargaining Unit.

Non-members Are Not Represented

Non-members of CAPS, those who are employed as state scientists without officially joining CAPS do not receive CAPS benefits, representation, or communications. Here’s a summary of benefits members receive that non-members do not:

	MEMBERS	NON-MEMBERS
REPRESENTATION during...
Investigatory Interviews	Yes	No
Negative Performance Evaluations	Yes	No
Performance Issues	Yes	No
Promotional Issues	Yes	No
Merit Appeals	Yes	No
Exam Appeals	Yes	No

LEGAL REPRESENTATION during...
Adverse Actions	Yes	No
Dismissals	Yes	No
Suspensions	Yes	No
Salary Reductions	Yes	No
Rejections During Probation	Yes	No
Unlawful Appointments	Yes	No
BENEFITS
CAPS COMMUNICATIONS	Yes	No
CAPSule	Yes	No
Weekly News	Yes	No
Bargaining Updates	Yes	No

CAPS MEETINGS	Yes	No
Worksite Meetings	Yes	No
Board Meetings	Yes	No

OTHER BENEFITS
Contract Voting Rights	Yes	No
CAPS Election Voting Rights	Yes	No
Bargaining and Other Surveys	Yes	No
Life Insurance	Yes	No
Scholarships	Yes	No
Consumer Discounts	Yes	No

Be Represented

Simply sign up online and join your fellow scientists in supporting the union that supports you: http://capsscientists.org/application/.

Have questions?

Feel free to call or email CAPS directly at caps@capsscientists.org